LATICS DEFENDER REMAINS AT THE DW STADIUM.Wigan Athletic defender Antonee Robinson will remain at the DW Stadium after his move to AC Milan could not be completed.

Robinson, 22, travelled to Milan this morning after the two clubs agreed a fee for the permanent transfer on Thursday evening.

The USA international underwent a medical examination with AC Milan, though further medical tests with the Italian authorities were required, which were subject to a 72-hour deadline.

As such, the deal could not be formally ratified before the 8pm Italian Transfer Deadline on Friday.

Antonee Robinson to AC Milan Overview

Shock has been registered by many across social media with news of Antonee Robinson to AC Milan. Much of the reaction seems to center on the struggling Italian giants having looked to Wigan to freshen its roster. However, a closer reading shows Milan acquiring a talented, if still somewhat raw, left fullback for a reasonable price (by their standards).

WHO IS HE?

Robinson is a dynamic left fullback who uses his top end speed to run at and unnerve defenses. English born and raised, Robinson is a U.S. international, eligible through his American father.

IS THE PRICE FAIR?

An initial price of £6 million that could grow to £10 million pounds for a player from a Wigan side battling to avoid the drop to League 1 sounds like a King’s ransom but for the well-heeled Milanos? Sure. Why not?

WHAT IMPACT SHOULD WE EXPECT?

Robinson comes to Milan as a replacement for Swiss international Ricardo Rodriguez who has been shipped to Dutch side PSV Eindhoven. Robinson is expected to back up Theo Hernandez, also 22. Hernandez has been something of a sensation for Milan since his move from Real Madrid, scoring 6 goals in 19 appearances.

In the short term, Robinson will hope to see some time as a rotation player. If the American international impresses, Milan may seek to cash in on Hernandez in the summer, leaving Robinson with a chance to earn the starting spot.

THE GRADES

Wigan: A
Financially this deal is a home run for the Latics, who paid approximately £2 million when they signed Robinson from Everton last summer. Wigan will miss Robinson and will need to splash that Italian cash before the transfer window slams shut to ensure a place in the Championship for next season.

AC Milan: B
Sitting in 8th place in Serie A Milan is clearly not the force it once was, but if Milan is right on Robinson and can cash in on Hernandez during the summer this will turn out to be a good bit of business for the Rossoneri.

USMNT: B
After Robinson impressed with his raw speed and promise in his initial U.S. outings under Dave Sarachan, a couple of shaky defensive performances, in particular against Douglas Costa and Brazil, pushed the pause button on Robinson’s rise.

Given the Italian game’s reputation for defensive excellence, the still young Robinson can hopefully acquire the necessary defensive nous to round out his game and throw his hat back into the ring to fill the long troublesome left back role for the U.S.A.

Peter Nolan

Peter Nolan has been on the soccer beat for many years now, covering the United States Men's and Women's teams, from the SnowClasico to Azteca and back again. Along with the US national teams, Peter will provide insight into the MLS and NWSL, with a focus on the NY Red Bulls and NYCFC.